Vol. 2, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Dental caries, known as Shavathu (also referred to as Krimi-danta in classical texts) in Ayurveda, is a prevalent oral disease marked by the progressive destruction of the tooth structure due to microbial activity. The increasing incidence of dental caries globally, particularly among children and young adults, calls for integrated and preventive approaches. Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, offers holistic management strategies that include the use of Dantadhavana (herbal tooth brushing) and Pratisarana (topical application/massaging of medicaments) for oral hygiene and caries control. This paper aims to elaborate on the Ayurvedic understanding of Shavathu (also referred to as Krimi-danta in classical texts), its etiology, pathogenesis, and management with classical and contemporary evidence. Emphasis is laid on the therapeutic utility of specific herbs such as Triphala, Haridra, Lavanga, and Arimedadi Taila, among others, which are prescribed in Ayurvedic texts for oral health. The study also discusses the physiological and pharmacological basis of Dantadhavana and Pratisarana and evaluates their efficacy in caries prevention. Modern parallels to oral probiotics, anti-inflammatory agents, and antimicrobial herbs are explored to validate traditional claims. The integration of Ayurvedic regimens in public dental health initiatives is also proposed.